Description
Silky homemade soft caramel invites sweet memories of grandmother’s kitchen, melting effortlessly on warm pastries. Creamy golden strands promise pure indulgence for passionate dessert enthusiasts who crave authentic, luxurious treats.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup light corn syrup
Flavoring Ingredients:
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp sea salt
Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp flaky sea salt (for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9×9-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper, ensuring the paper overhangs on two sides for easy removal, and lightly grease the exposed sides.
- In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine granulated sugar, heavy cream, unsalted butter, and light corn syrup, stirring gently to blend ingredients evenly.
- Position the saucepan over medium-high heat, allowing the mixture to dissolve without stirring, which prevents sugar crystallization.
- Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan, monitoring the temperature carefully as the mixture begins to bubble and caramelize.
- Continue cooking without disturbing the mixture until it reaches exactly 248°F (firm ball stage), which typically takes 12-15 minutes.
- Immediately remove the pan from heat and quickly whisk in vanilla extract and sea salt, ensuring thorough incorporation without deflating the caramel.
- Carefully pour the molten caramel into the prepared pan, using a silicone spatula to spread it evenly and prevent air bubbles.
- Allow the caramel to cool at room temperature for 2-3 hours until completely set and firm to the touch.
- Lift the caramel out of the pan using the parchment paper overhang, then slice into small squares using a sharp, oiled knife.
- Sprinkle flaky sea salt over the cut caramels for a final touch of flavor and visual appeal.
- Store the caramels in an airtight container between layers of parchment paper at room temperature for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to distribute heat evenly and prevent burning, which helps create smooth, consistent caramel with no bitter spots.
- Avoid stirring during caramelization to prevent sugar crystallization, allowing the mixture to transform naturally into a golden, glossy caramel.
- Monitor temperature precisely with a candy thermometer, as even a few degrees can dramatically change the caramel’s texture from soft and chewy to hard and brittle.
- Enhance flavor by experimenting with different salt varieties like Himalayan pink salt or smoked sea salt for unique taste profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Desserts, Snacks
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 8
- Calories: 202
- Sugar: 25 g
- Sodium: 38 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 31 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 18 mg